New to the group but long time 80 owner

[BrooklynFJ80]

Hey Guys - I am new to this local STLCA group but i've been lurking on the mud forum for quite some time. Owned the 80 since we bought it off the lot at Rivergate Toyota in 97. It's been a daily driver for 25 years now and I have recently ventured into the world off wanting to convert it to part DD and part off-road camping vehicle for my family. That being said, I am new to off roading. Mill Creek Overland currently has it and is adding some much needed TLC and upgrades to allow some light duty off road to happen. Lift, tires, servicing of all drive line items, etc.

So, since I am new to the world of off-road vs. on road I am wondering what/ where you guys think is a good place to start to better understand capability and how I might be a better driver in off road terrain. Where are some good/ light trails that I can practice and eventually upgrade where and how I drive off road. I am in the West Nashville area. Any help or advice on doing this in a way that keeps it safe and also doesn't totally destroy my 80. Since it's a bit of an heirloom vehicle I don't want to launch it off of boulders just yet : ) It's not a show car but not looking to thrash it either.

Thanks in advance and hope to meet and learn from all of you guys in the near future.

David

 

[jynx]

Not sure you'll have it back, but the Dixieland crew do a run to windrock on MLK weekend. That is usually a good ride. LBL has some nice ride around trails and there are usually some folks that go there from time to time. Windrock up in east TN is probably one of the better all around parks. Start on the gravel roads and then as your ability and confidence increase, there are easy and moderate trails to try out. GSMTR is held there each year, June in 22 I believe. And there are the STLCA rides that they post up every so often. Poke around the page, and if your on any of the socials (I'm not so this may be wrong) but I think they throw stuff up there more than here.

@Tennessee80 @Bama4door

 

[Bama4door]

Hey Guys - I am new to this local STLCA group but i've been lurking on the mud forum for quite some time. Owned the 80 since we bought it off the lot at Rivergate Toyota in 97. It's been a daily driver for 25 years now and I have recently ventured into the world off wanting to convert it to part DD and part off-road camping vehicle for my family. That being said, I am new to off roading. Mill Creek Overland currently has it and is adding some much needed TLC and upgrades to allow some light duty off road to happen. Lift, tires, servicing of all drive line items, etc.

So, since I am new to the world of off-road vs. on road I am wondering what/ where you guys think is a good place to start to better understand capability and how I might be a better driver in off road terrain. Where are some good/ light trails that I can practice and eventually upgrade where and how I drive off road. I am in the West Nashville area. Any help or advice on doing this in a way that keeps it safe and also doesn't totally destroy my 80. Since it's a bit of an heirloom vehicle I don't want to launch it off of boulders just yet : ) It's not a show car but not looking to thrash it either.

Thanks in advance and hope to meet and learn from all of you guys in the near future.

David

Hey David,

Like Matthew mentioned, we have a ride planned Jan 14-17 up at Windrock Offroad Park, which is about 2.5hrs from Nashville.

We have 2 big cabins rented this year that are next to each other, but due to demand there are guys renting other smaller cabins as well. This is our 4th year to do this trip, but in years past do a big group ride through moderate trails. I don’t think we’ve had anyone get into a situation where they have broken anything or gotten any damage.

We usually have a few guys that are new to off-roading every year, but by the end of the trip they are wondering how soon the next one is haha.

 

[BrooklynFJ80]

Thanks so much for the response fellas. I am hoping I can join in time. If not, I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for the next one. Is there a facebook group or anything that's easier to keep track of updates and rides? Mud isn't the easiest place for notifications.

 

[DSLTOY]

Thanks so much for the response fellas. I am hoping I can join in time. If not, I will definitely keep my eyes peeled for the next one. Is there a facebook group or anything that's easier to keep track of updates and rides? Mud isn't the easiest place for notifications.

STLCA has both a FB page Southeast Toyota Land Cruiser Association and a group STLCA and a for sale group STLCA Garage